Samsonite Cordoba Duo 69cm Travel Spinner

17 Aug 2011 by Jenny Southan

If your suitcase is looking scratched or frayed, the zips have broken and the wheels are worn, it is time to start shopping for a replacement. This new range of expandable Cordoba Duo Travel Spinner cases from Samsonite comes in two colours (graphite and red) and offers a selection of conventionally smart options for male and female business travellers.
Although Samsonite also offers the Cordoba Duo Upright with two wheels, which make it easier to stand steady on a moving train or subway, I prefer the spinner version on four wheels as it is much easier to maneuver, gliding across floors without putting strain on your wrist as you push or pull it.
The Travel Spinner comes in two sizes – 76cm x 52.5cm x 29cm and 69.5cm x 47cm x 24.5cm – but I went for the smaller one as the former would be far too big for any work trip, and even for a long holiday, with a maximum volume of 104 litres, would mean that filling it would probably take you over your airline’s luggage allowance.
The case itself is made from durable polyester and felt light and easy to manage. As well as a large zip-up front pocket that is handy for slipping magazines or documents into, it has a second zip that allows it to be expanded from 67 to 72 litres – something I consider essential as I always come back home with more than I left with.
Another element that I liked is the easy-to-use fixed combination TSA combination lock, which means that belongings are protected from opportunist thieves but can be opened if necessary by security officials without them having to break the lock.
Inside there are mesh compartments for suits or shirts, and elasticated ribbons that clip together to keep clothes in place. The retractable handle felt strong and slid up and down to varying heights without a hitch, and there is also a grip on the side. All in all, a very good suitcase.
PROS Well built and with essential features such as four wheels, expandability and TSA lock.
CONS Aesthetically bland.
PRICE £159
CONTACTsamsonite.co.uk